Located in New Zealand′s North Island, Auckland is the country′s largest city and a bustling port with a rich maritime history. Known as the "City of Sails," Auckland′s waterfront is dotted with marinas and yachts, making it a hub for sailing enthusiasts. The port also serves as a gateway to New Zealand′s many natural wonders, including the rugged West Coast beaches, lush rainforests, and geothermal wonders of the North Island. As a major transportation hub for both cargo and passengers, Auckland port plays a significant role in the country′s economy and tourism industry.
Auckland is New Zealand's most urbanized city, home to 33% of the country's population
It is the largest political, and economic center of the island nation spreading in the southwest Pacific Ocean. The city is located on 48 extinct volcanoes, which turned into mountains, lakes, and even islands. It is deservedly called the most colorful city of Polynesia, because it harmoniously combines Asian, European and Polynesian cultures. Tourists won't find any historical monuments of architecture, ancient castles and fortresses here, but that's not what attracts millions of travelers here year after year. Auckland is beautiful with its nature and plenty of modern museums and galleries. Travelers of all ages will enjoy spending a few days here, and many will consider staying here forever.
In the beginning, the gods looked down on the land of Aotearoa, and they saw that the land was good. They decided to gift the land with their treasures, and so they gathered their most prized possessions and bestowed them upon the earth.
One of the gods, the great sea god Tangaroa, was reluctant to part with his treasures. He held onto his prized pearl, the most precious of his possessions, and refused to give it up. But the other gods were insistent, and so Tangaroa finally relented, placing his pearl into the heart of the Waitematā Harbour.
The pearl glowed brightly, illuminating the waters of the harbour and bringing life to the sea creatures that called it home. But the gods had one final gift to bestow upon the land, and so they created a people to inhabit it.
These people were called the Māori, and they too saw the beauty of the Waitematā Harbour. They built their homes and villages around its shores, fishing and hunting in its waters and living in harmony with the sea.
As time passed, the Māori came to revere the pearl of Tangaroa, believing it to be a sacred treasure that held great power. They would make offerings to the pearl, and they believed that it had the ability to bring good fortune and protection to those who lived near its waters.
To this day, the Waitematā Harbour remains a sacred place for the Māori people, and the pearl of Tangaroa is still believed to hold great power and significance. The harbour continues to be a vital part of the Auckland region, providing a source of livelihood and beauty to those who call it home.